34 Wedding Tips for Couples Not Hiring a Wedding Planner

Planning a wedding without a professional planner may seem overwhelming, but with the right approach, it can be incredibly rewarding. Many couples choose to take on the planning themselves to save money or add a personal touch to their big day. While it requires dedication and organization, the result can be a deeply memorable and meaningful event. To help you stay on track and avoid any last-minute stress, here are 34 practical tips for couples who are opting to plan their wedding without the help of a planner.

1. Consider a Planning App or Checklist

Using a planning app or checklist can help you stay organized and on top of your wedding tasks. These tools allow you to break down the planning process into manageable chunks and track your progress as you go. With so many moving pieces involved in wedding planning, having everything in one place can give you peace of mind. Many apps even allow you to collaborate with your fiancé or other helpers, keeping everyone on the same page.

2. Sort the Date, Venue, DJ, and Photographer Early

It’s essential to nail down the major elements of your wedding early in the process. Start by deciding on a wedding date, selecting a venue, and booking key vendors such as your DJ and photographer. The earlier you secure these essentials, the more flexibility you’ll have with other details. For the best availability, aim to book your venue about 9 months in advance, especially if you have your eye on a popular location.

3. Friday and Sunday Weddings are Cheaper

While Saturday is the most popular wedding day, choosing a Friday or Sunday can save you a significant amount of money. Many venues and vendors offer 30% off discounts for non-Saturday weddings due to lower demand. A Friday evening or Sunday afternoon wedding can still offer the same celebratory feel while being a more budget-friendly option.

4. Get a Miles or Cash Back Credit Card

Maximize your wedding spending by using a miles or cash-back credit card like the United Explorer Card or Chase Sapphire Preferred Card. Charging all your wedding-related expenses to the card, instead of paying them out of pocket, will help you rack up points or cash back. These rewards can then be used to offset the costs of your honeymoon or other post-wedding expenses.

5. Estimate All Costs Before Booking the Venue

Before you fall in love with a venue, make sure to ask for a full breakdown of costs. Outlining estimates for everything, from preferred catering to taxes and service fees to tips and gratuities, will help you understand the true cost of each element of your wedding. This transparency can prevent any surprise expenses later on and ensure that you stay within your budget.

6. Embrace the Spreadsheet and Organize Your Inbox

A well-organized spreadsheet can be your best friend during wedding planning. Use it to keep track of vendor information, payments, and deadlines. Additionally, organize your email inbox by creating folders for each vendor, so you can easily find any relevant correspondence when needed. Staying organized from the start will save you hours of stress and confusion later on.

7. Expect Some Guests to Decline

Don’t be discouraged if 10 to 20 percent of your invited guests don’t attend your wedding. This is a typical occurrence, especially for out-of-town guests or during busy seasons. It’s important to manage expectations and not take it personally. With a smaller guest list, you may even find that you have more space and a more intimate celebration.

8. Include Your Fiancé in Planning

Planning your wedding should be a shared responsibility. Divide the tasks equally based on each of your interests or strengths, whether it’s choosing the photographer, the florals, music, or coordinating the catering and alcohol. Regularly check in with each other before making any final decisions to ensure you're both aligned on the vision and budget.

9. Avoid Being Influenced by Instagram and Pinterest Trends

While Instagram and Pinterest can be great sources of inspiration, remember that many wedding photos you will find are styled shoots organized by vendors, not real weddings. These shoots often feature unrealistic budgets, excessive florals, and elaborate décor that can cost thousands. Focus on creating a wedding that feels authentic to you, rather than mimicking what you see on social media. You don’t need to spend $10K on florals.

10. Focus Your Budget and Time Only on What Matters Most

Instead of spending on trends or items that won’t have lasting value, focus your budget and time on the wedding details that mean the most to you. Whether it’s a meaningful ceremony, delicious food, or a great band, prioritize what will make your day special. By investing in the right areas, you’ll create a memorable experience that reflects your values and style.

11. Ask your Vendors for all Included Fees

To avoid surprises, make sure to ask your wedding vendors for a complete breakdown of all fees. Vendors sometimes add additional costs later on, such as travel fees or overtime charges. Clarifying all costs ahead of time will ensure that there are no unexpected surprises when it’s time to pay the bill.

12. Skip the Wedding Party or Go Unconventional

Don’t feel pressured to have a large bridal party if that’s not what you envision. Some couples opt for no wedding party at all, while others have an uneven number of attendants on each side. Do what feels right for you and your partner. The wedding party should reflect your personal preferences, not societal expectations.

13. Trim Your Guest List to Save Money

One of the most significant wedding expenses is the catering, which is often charged at $100 or more per plate. If you have a guest list of 200, that can easily total $20,000. Consider trimming your guest list to include only close friends and family. You don’t need to invite everyone you’ve ever met to make the day special. If they haven’t texted you in 3 months, move them to the maybe list. If you haven’t seen them since you were 12, and you need to save costs, they don’t make the list.

14. Make a "Rain Plan" for Your Outdoor Wedding

If you're having an outdoor wedding, always have a backup plan in case of rain or bad weather. Even if the forecast looks perfect, it’s best to prepare for any situation. Whether it’s a tent, an indoor alternative, or a flexible venue, having a “rain plan” ensures that you’re not scrambling at the last minute if the weather turns.

15. Be Selective with Sharing Wedding Details

If you’re planning a wedding that breaks from tradition—such as unique food options, buffet style vs plated, or outdoor location that isn’t convenient—be mindful about who you share these details with. Well-meaning family and friends may offer unsolicited opinions, which can dampen your excitement. Keep your ideas to yourselves if you think others’ feedback will discourage you. You don’t want someone’s opinion to kill your excitement, and everyone will have a different opinion.

16. Choosing a Venue With No “Preferred Vendor” List Can Save You Money

Choosing a wedding venue that doesn't have a preferred vendor list can offer you greater flexibility and potential savings. With a preferred vendor list, venues often require you to use certain vendors, which can come with higher prices or limited options. By selecting vendors that fit your style and budget, you can tailor your wedding to your preferences and save money in the process. Don’t be afraid to negotiate or shop around for the best deals.

17. If Planning to Skip the Videographer, Consider Hiring a Student

If you're on the fence about hiring a videographer, consider hiring a student photographer who will do video to capture key moments of your day, like your vows, first kiss, speeches, and first dance. Many photography students are eager to build their portfolios and offer their services at a fraction of the cost of established professionals. This option allows you to preserve special moments without breaking your budget, and you can still have beautiful images of your big day.

18. Book the Second Photographer

A second photographer can make all the difference in capturing the full range of emotions and moments on your wedding day. While the primary photographer will focus on key moments, a second photographer can capture candid shots, reactions, and details that might otherwise be missed. The additional coverage of moments leading up to and after the ceremony can provide a richer and more complete memory of your day.

19. You’ll Need One Bartender Per 50 Guests

A smooth and efficient drink service is essential for keeping your guests happy. A good rule of thumb is to have one bartender per 50 guests to ensure that lines don’t get too long. Some venues allow you to make pre-batched drinks in advance, which speeds up service and ensures your guests aren't waiting too long. This small detail can help keep the atmosphere lively and ensure that everyone enjoys the celebration.

20. Buffer More Time Than You Plan For

On your wedding day, things rarely go as planned. Whether it’s hair and makeup running longer than expected or unexpected traffic, having extra time built into your schedule will reduce stress. Allowing buffer time between key moments—like between the ceremony and reception—ensures that nothing feels rushed, and it gives you time to relax and enjoy the moment. Plan for delays, and everything will go more smoothly.

21. Knock Out all Wedding Tasks 2-3 Weeks Before the Big Day

Two to three weeks before your wedding, aim to have all your major planning tasks completed. This includes confirming vendor details, finalizing your timeline, and organizing the little things like place cards or favors. Giving yourself time to check everything off in advance ensures that the last few weeks before your wedding are less stressful and more enjoyable.

22. Hire a “Day Of” Coordinator

If you're not hiring a full-time wedding planner, consider hiring a “day of” coordinator. This person will handle the logistics on the day itself, so you and your guests can enjoy the celebration without worrying about the timeline or vendor coordination. Having a professional take care of the details will allow you to be fully present, leaving you to focus on celebrating rather than stressing over small hiccups.

23. Ask Your Bridal Party for Help and Delegate Tasks

Your bridal party can be a valuable resource for getting things done leading up to the wedding. Don’t be afraid to ask them for help with specific tasks like addressing invitations, assembling favors, or organizing pre-wedding events. Assigning clear tasks to your bridal party can ease your workload and keep everyone engaged and invested in the celebration.

24. Designate Someone to Grab Your Appetizers and Drinks on the Wedding Day

The wedding day can be a whirlwind, and the bride and groom often don't have time to enjoy the food and drinks. Designate someone you trust—whether it’s a bridesmaid, groomsman, or family member—to grab your appetizers and drinks during the reception. This ensures that you get a chance to refuel and enjoy the meal you’ve worked so hard to choose.

25. Keep Family Portraits Minimal

While family portraits are important, try to keep them minimal and focused on your immediate family. Spending an hour on formal group shots can take away valuable time that could be spent capturing more natural, documentary-style photos of you and your partner. Prioritize those intimate, candid moments and leave the formal shots to a few key family members.

26. Save Costs with Decor on Facebook Marketplace or eBay

Buying used wedding décor on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or eBay can save you a significant amount of money. Many couples sell their décor after their wedding, and often, these items are gently used or even brand new. Purchasing second-hand can help reduce your overall wedding expenses, and you'll still have beautiful, unique décor to make your day special. Sell the decor after the wedding and your decor costs account for a very small portion of the total budget.

27. Know that Your Dinner Plates May Be Taken if You Opt for Sunset Photos

If you plan to leave during sunset for photos, be sure to assign someone to request that your dinner plates not be cleared. This ensures that you have a meal waiting for you when you return, as the day can be so busy that you might not have time to eat otherwise. Having a warm meal after your photo session will help you refuel and enjoy the evening.

28. Keep Bachelorette and Bachelor Parties Under $200 Per Person

While bachelorette and bachelor parties are an important tradition, they can also be expensive. Set a reasonable budget of $200 per person to avoid going overboard with extravagant plans. Focus on having a fun, memorable experience without the pressure of overspending, and remember that it's the quality time together that counts the most.

29. Have Someone Place a Catering Order the Morning of the Wedding

Wedding days can be hectic, and ensuring that the wedding party has food and drink is often overlooked. Designate someone to place a catering order for your bridal party to ensure that they have sustenance throughout the day. Even basic snacks like sandwiches, fruit, or chips can go a long way in keeping everyone energized and focused on the celebrations.

30. Have Someone Learn to Pin Up Your Bustle

A wedding dress bustle is essential for making sure your train doesn’t drag on the floor during the reception. Assign a trusted friend or family member to learn how to pin up the bustle before the wedding. This ensures that you won’t be scrambling to figure it out at the last minute and helps the evening run smoothly.

31. Create a Playlist for Getting Ready and Transportation

Having a playlist ready for getting ready and transportation can add an extra layer of fun and excitement to your wedding day. Create a playlist of your favorite songs to energize you and your bridal party as you get ready. It’s also a great way to create an upbeat atmosphere during the travel time between venues, making the day even more enjoyable.

32. Think About Guest Transportation Logistics

Consider how you’ll be getting your guests from one location to another, especially if your ceremony and reception are at different venues. Renting a shuttle or arranging for transportation can alleviate stress for your guests, particularly those who may not be familiar with the area. It also ensures everyone arrives on time, so the event can flow smoothly.

33. Snacks and Water Are Key on the Wedding Day

Wedding days are long and often filled with excitement and nerves, so it’s important to provide snacks and water for both your wedding party and vendors. 14-hour days can be exhausting, and staying hydrated and nourished will keep everyone in good spirits. Be sure to have snacks like granola bars, fruit, or nuts available throughout the day.

34. Assign Someone to Secure the Card Box

The card box is an important part of your wedding, as it holds all of the generous gifts and cards from your guests. Designate someone trustworthy to keep an eye on the card box throughout the event to ensure that it doesn’t get misplaced or lost. Whether it’s a trusted friend or family member, having someone responsible for this task will provide peace of mind.

Conclusion

Planning a wedding without a professional planner can feel like a daunting task, but with the right organization, collaboration, and attention to detail, it can be a rewarding and unforgettable experience. By starting early, staying organized, and focusing on the elements that truly matter to you, you can create a day that reflects your unique love story. Remember, the best weddings are not necessarily the ones with the most elaborate details or the largest budgets but the ones where couples are able to celebrate authentically with the people they love. With these 34 tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a beautiful, stress-free wedding day that you and your guests will cherish forever.

About the Author

Sasha is a wedding photographer based in the Chicagoland area, with a passion for capturing the moments that make each couple's story unique. She loves writing blog articles that cover a wide range of topics, from portrait locations to gift ideas, wedding advice, and more—anything that will help her couples create a meaningful and stress-free journey. When she’s not behind the camera, Sasha enjoys traveling internationally and indulging in her favorite treat, salted peanut butter ice cream from Jeni’s. Sasha also spends her downtime hanging out with her foster cat, Missy, and listening to pop punk bands. Currently, she’s booking weddings for 2025 and 2026, and she’s excited to help even more couples bring their wedding visions to life!